Forget about the traditional hotel room. Why not treat yourself to a stay at one of the world’s quirkiest library hotels? These unique establishments provide all the creature comforts of a hotel, with the added bonus of being surrounded by books. Whether you’re looking for a cozy place to stay for the night or a place to relax and soak up some literary vibes, these library hotels are sure to delight. Read on to discover five of the most charming library hotels in the world.
The American Library Association Hotel, Chicago
The American Library Association Hotel in Chicago is a unique library-hotel hybrid. It’s the first and only hotel in the world that combines a library, hotel and restaurant under one roof. The hotel is located in the heart of the city, within walking distance of popular attractions such as Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile.
The lobby is home to a library featuring over 12,000 books, with a special focus on titles related to literature, travel, history and science. The hotel also boasts a large collection of newspapers, magazines, journals and DVDs for guests to enjoy during their stay. The hotel’s staff is knowledgeable about the library’s collection and can help guests find exactly what they’re looking for.
The American Library Association Hotel also offers numerous amenities such as an on-site restaurant, fitness center and business center. Guests can also take advantage of complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the entire property. The hotel’s rooms and suites offer contemporary décor with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars and high-end bathrooms.
Whether you’re looking for a unique library experience or a comfortable place to rest your head after a day of exploring Chicago, the American Library Association Hotel is a perfect choice.
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria
For literature and history enthusiasts, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt, is a must-see destination. Located on the Mediterranean Sea, this library hotel is part of a larger complex that includes a planetarium, museum, art gallery and theater. The hotel itself is a modern building, with a luxurious interior that features works from international artists such as Ai Weiwei and Anish Kapoor.
As one of the world’s oldest libraries, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina dates back to the 3rd century BC and has been restored to its former glory after being destroyed by an earthquake in the 4th century. Visitors to the hotel can explore its 8 million volumes of books, journals, magazines, newspapers and other resources. The hotel also offers special events such as lectures, workshops and exhibitions.
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina offers guests a unique experience of culture and knowledge. The library’s design reflects its past, while its modern amenities provide a sense of comfort and relaxation. Guests can unwind in the on-site cafe or take advantage of the hotel’s free Wi-Fi. And when it’s time to retire, guests can stay in one of the hotel’s luxurious rooms, all of which feature comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, minibars and complimentary toiletries.
The Liyuan Library, Beijing
The Liyuan Library in Beijing is one of the world’s quirkiest library hotels. Located in the picturesque Haidian district, the library hotel was designed by architect Liu Feng in 2006.
The library has a unique interior design featuring an abundance of natural light and an eclectic mix of traditional and modern elements. The library is surrounded by lush greenery, making it the perfect retreat for book lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Beijing.
The Liyuan Library offers guests a variety of amenities including a cafe, tea house, and lounge area where visitors can enjoy their favorite reads in a tranquil setting. Visitors can also rent books from the library’s extensive collection which features over 60,000 volumes.
When you’re done perusing the library, you can also explore the nearby botanical gardens or take part in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony. With so much to do and explore, you won’t want to leave this tranquil library hotel anytime soon!
The Selexyz Dominicanen Bookstore, Maastricht
Located in the historic city of Maastricht in the Netherlands, the Selexyz Dominicanen Bookstore is a one-of-a-kind library hotel. The stunning building was originally an 800-year-old gothic church and now houses an extensive collection of books.
Visitors to this unique library hotel are encouraged to browse through the large selection of books available or take advantage of the onsite café for a peaceful break. Inside the building, visitors will find a cozy atmosphere with its warm wood furnishings, high ceilings and stained-glass windows. After visiting the bookstore, visitors can also take a stroll around the nearby city streets which are filled with shops, restaurants and cafes.
In addition to browsing and shopping, the Selexyz Dominicanen Bookstore offers a number of events throughout the year including book talks, author signings and workshops. As one of the quirkiest library hotels in the world, it is definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in Maastricht!
The Abbey Hotel, Bath
Nestled in the stunning city of Bath, England is The Abbey Hotel. This unique hotel is housed inside the Grade II listed former Abbey church which was built in 1499. Not only does this hotel offer the chance to stay in a former Abbey, but it also provides a library experience unlike any other.
The Abbey Hotel features an on-site library with more than 8,000 books available for guests to peruse during their stay. In addition to the library, there are also several interactive displays throughout the hotel that tell the story of Bath’s long and fascinating history.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy a good book or explore the city of Bath and its many historic attractions, The Abbey Hotel offers a unique and memorable experience. From the stunning architecture to the intriguing history of the city, this library hotel has something to offer everyone. When night falls, the warmly lit library provides a cozy atmosphere perfect for reading and conversation.
Guests can even order food and drinks to their rooms from the restaurant and bar. And after a day spent exploring the city, visitors can head back to The Abbey Hotel’s comfortable beds for some much-needed rest. It’s no wonder why The Abbey Hotel remains one of the world’s most beloved library hotels.
